AI and art

A new chapter for photography in Africa

This September marked the opening of the Roger Ballen Centre for Photography in Forest Town, Johannesburg, one of the few institutions on the African continent dedicated entirely to photography. Founded by internationally acclaimed photographer Roger Ballen and designed by award-winning architect Joe van Rooyen, the Centre offers a space for reflection, experimentation, and critical engagement with the medium, from the archival to the avant-garde.

The Centre’s inaugural exhibition, PSYCHOPOMP!, was curated by Berlin-based artist and theorist Boris Eldagsen and the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF) is proud to support the exhibition. The show explored the evolving role of AI-generated images as a mirror to the unconscious mind, raising timely questions about creativity, ethics, and the shifting nature of photography itself.

“As a liberal foundation, we believe in the power of creativity, innovation, and the free exchange of ideas,” said Inge Herbert, FNF’s Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa. “At a time when AI technologies are rapidly transforming how images are created, shared, and understood, it is vital to equip audiences and artists alike to navigate this new landscape. By encouraging freedom of expression and critical engagement, we can help build a vibrant, sustainable creative ecosystem in which African voices contribute meaningfully to the global conversation on art and photography.

Inspiring the Next Generation

In addition to the public launch, FNF was proud to support a special educational programme as part of the opening week. Learners from two marginalised communities in Gauteng were invited to the Centre to experience the exhibition first-hand. Boris Eldagsen personally led a tour and delivered a lecture introducing the students to the role of artificial intelligence in art and image-making.

The sessions provided a rare opportunity for young people to engage directly with an internationally recognised artist, sparking curiosity and critical discussion about the possibilities and challenges of AI in creative practice. For many of the learners, it was their first time encountering photography presented in such a thought-provoking and experimental way. “I am inspired and shook,” said one of the learners afterwards.

During the lively question and answer session, which the students made full use of, the issue of licensing was raised. Boris explained: “Legally there is no situation of whether you are allowed to or not (develop and use AI-generated material). Technology is progressing so fast, whilst the law is lagging way behind.”

It was also asked what they should consider when thinking about career options in the field. Boris responded with optimism: “There is so much that is coming, it is as exciting as the age of the Internet boom, and thus many opportunities will arise.”

A Platform for Freedom and Creativity

The opening of the Roger Ballen Centre represents more than the launch of a new cultural space, it embodies liberal values of openness, curiosity, and innovation. By supporting this initiative, FNF affirms its commitment to fostering artistic freedom, expanding access to ideas, and ensuring that African perspectives help shape global debates on art and technology.

With PSYCHOPOMP! setting the tone for critical reflection and bold experimentation, the Centre is poised to become a vibrant hub for photographers, artists, and the public alike. For FNF, it is a meaningful step towards nurturing creativity and dialogue in South Africa and beyond.